Europe Asia News

The European Parliament adopted a new law on Wednesday seeking to prevent the Russian Federation from using its energy resources as a tool of political pressure. Under the regulation, imports of Russian-origin liquefied natural gas (LNG) purchased on the spot market will be banned across the EU once the law enters into force in early 2026. Imports of natural gas via pipelines will be phased out by 30 September 2027.

During negotiations, the co-legislators brought forward the phase-out timelines set for many import contracts. The new law also includes sanctions to be imposed by member states on operators in the event of violations.

Members of the European Parliament also raised the issue of a total ban on imports of Russian oil during talks with the Council under Denmark’s rotating presidency. The European Commission committed to presenting a new legislative proposal in early 2026 and to bringing the ban into force no later than the end of 2027.

In addition, the regulation tightens the conditions for the temporary suspension of the import ban in emergency situations linked to the EU’s energy security. To prevent circumvention of the rules, energy operators are required to submit more detailed and legally binding documentation to customs authorities regarding the country of origin of the gas prior to import or storage.